Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2001-09-04-Speech-2-226"
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"en.20010904.9.2-226"2
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". – I will start by quoting the last part of the question – 'would the Commission ensure the introduction of binding human rights legislation to hold companies accountable for their activities overseas either directly or through affiliates?' I would react by warning against rushing into the principle of extra-territoriality in our legislation. I have a clear impression of this House's strong opinion concerning the Helms-Burton Act with its extra-territoriality and the problems it creates. It is necessary to approach this with caution.
As regards Sudan, we are following the political situation closely and we are actively participating in the political dialogue between the EU and Sudan that was resumed in November 1999. Despite continued concerns about the human rights situation and the lack of progress in the peace process, the political dialogue is considered to be generally positive and it has been agreed to continue it for another year.
The Commission supports initiatives in favour of human rights in Sudan and is planning a study to prepare a more comprehensive strategy in this area. The Commission is aware that economic issues, like sharing Sudan's oil wealth, play an ever increasing role in the conflict. So one could say that the development of this oil sector has raised the stakes for the peace negotiations. Hopefully it could be turned into an asset for that peace negotiation process.
The Commission is aware of the accusations that many people living near the oil concessions have been forced to leave and that they have been exposed to human rights abuses. We believe that there is no doubt that militias armed by the government to protect the oil fields and militias supported by the SPLM are involved in human rights violations. However no accurate independent and objective information is available to confirm a large-scale scorched earth policy organised and implemented by the government.
As regards a possible investment ban, the Commission doubts the utility of unilateral sanctions as a foreign policy tool. We are convinced that a policy of engagement rather than isolation is the best way to have our concerns heard and expectations met.
As far as legislation is concerned, the Commission already promotes respect of human rights by EU companies wherever they operate, in particular through the OECD guidelines for multinational enterprises. This instrument, although not legally binding, entails strong recommendations by 33 governments to their multinational enterprises to operate in a socially responsible manner worldwide. It is clear that this is not the same as what is asked for in the question but having broad international support for these principles is in any case necessary to promote efficiency. I believe this is the best way of proceeding."@en1
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